As many as 100 students may ultimately be chosen for the project, depending on mission constraints, according to a spokeswoman for the Planetary Society, a space-boosting organization that is supporting the venture.

CNN: Space Day 1999

In particular, the American Astronomical Society's Division of Planetary Sciences has weighed in on Pluto's behalf.

ECONOMIST: Pluto out in the cold

"You're going to actually get a chance to actually drive flight hardware on another planet, " said Bill Nye, a children's science show host on U.S. public television and a member of Planetary Society's board, who was also present for the announcement.

CNN: Space Day 1999